Antioxidant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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antioxidant
[หรฆntiหษษชษหsษชd ]
Definition
health
An antioxidant is a substance that helps prevent damage to cells caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause harm to the body if not neutralized by antioxidants.
Synonyms
cell protector, free radical scavenger, oxidative stress fighter.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| antioxidant |
This term is commonly used in health and nutrition contexts to describe substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals.
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| free radical scavenger |
This term is more technical and might be used in scientific literature or detailed health discussions. It emphasizes the mechanism by which antioxidants neutralize free radicals.
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| cell protector |
This phrase is often used in a more descriptive way to emphasize the protective role that certain substances have on cells. It's suitable for educational or promotional materials.
|
| oxidative stress fighter |
This expression is often used in contexts that aim to explain the benefits of antioxidants in combating oxidative stress. It's suitable for both scientific and general health discussions.
|
Examples of usage
- Eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries and green leafy vegetables, can help protect against diseases like cancer and heart disease.
- Many skincare products contain antioxidants to help combat the effects of aging and environmental stressors.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Antioxidants include vitamins like C and E, minerals such as selenium, and various plant compounds.
- They work by neutralizing free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage and lead to various diseases.
- Research suggests a diet rich in antioxidants may lower the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer.
Nutrition
- Fruits like blueberries, strawberries, and oranges are high in antioxidants and can help boost your health.
- Dark chocolate, particularly with a high cocoa content, is also a rich source of antioxidants and can be a tasty treat.
- Green tea contains a powerful type of antioxidant called catechins, which may support metabolism and heart health.
Pop Culture
- Many health drinks and supplements boast high levels of antioxidants, often marketed with catchy phrases and colorful labels.
- Media and advertisements often link antioxidants to anti-aging properties, influencing consumer behavior toward certain products.
History
- The discovery of antioxidants in foods dates back to the 1930s when researchers began studying their effects on aging and disease.
- Before they were formally recognized, some cultures used natural sources rich in antioxidants for their health benefits, such as herbal teas and spices.
Origin of 'antioxidant'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'anti-' meaning against and 'oxidant', referring to a substance that causes oxidation.
- It first appeared in scientific literature in the early 20th century, linking it to compounds that combat tissue damage.
The term 'antioxidant' was first coined in 1916 by the chemist Albert Szent-Gyรถrgyi, who won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1937 for his work on vitamin C and the citric acid cycle. The concept of antioxidants gained popularity in the late 20th century as research suggested their potential health benefits.